1. business and industrial
2. energy
3. coal

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Table of Contents
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
8:30 am – 9:45 am
Keynote Address – Page 3
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Concurrent 1 – Mineral Resources Management – Page 4
Concurrent 2 – Ohio Dam Safety Organization (ODSO) – Page 6
Concurrent 3 – Ohio Lake Management Society (OLMS) – Water Quality – Page 9
1:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Concurrent 1 – Education and Outreach – Page 11
Concurrent 2 – Water Quality – Page 13
Concurrent 3 – Ohio Lake Management Society (OLMS) – Stewardship – Page 15
3:15 pm – 4:45 pm
Concurrent 1 – Next Generation of Water Professionals – Page 17
Concurrent 2 – Fish Science – Page 18
Concurrent 3 – Ohio Lake Management Society (OLMS) –A Case Study – Page 19
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Concurrent 1 – Wetlands – Page 20
Concurrent 2 – Nutrient Loading – Page 22
Concurrent 3 – Public Water Supply – Page 25
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Concurrent 1 – Water Use and Availability – Page 28
Concurrent 2 – Nutrient Management – Page 30
Concurrent 3 – Groundwater – Page 32
1:45 pm – 3:15 pm
Concurrent 1 – Climate Change – Page 35
Concurrent 2 – Watershed Management – Page 37
Concurrent 3 – Floodplain Management (OFMA) – Page 39
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Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Keynote Address
Alder & Oaks Rooms 8:30 am – 9:45 am
Title: Water Conflicts - Author: Dr. G. Dennis Cooke, Professor Emeritus, Kent State University
Biography: Dr. G. Dennis Cooke was awarded the Ph.D. degree in Zoology from the University
of Iowa in 1965. He then studied as an NIH and NASA post-doctoral fellow with Eugene P.
Odum at the Institute of Ecology, University of Georgia, on the ecology of bio-regenerative life
support systems for long-term space flight. He was appointed Assistant Professor in Biological
Sciences at Kent State University in 1967. His research was on lake restoration and
management. He, colleagues, and students developed the alum application method for
controlling phosphorus release from sediments of eutrophic lakes. They also investigated
several other in-lake treatment methods, including harvesting, herbicides, artificial circulation,
and sediment covers. He and a colleague published significant papers on the appearance of
disinfection by-product precursors in reservoirs, and the use of management and rehabilitation
techniques for their control. He trained three Ph.D. students and many M.S. students, and was
awarded the Technical Merit Award from the North American Lake Management Society
(NALMS) and the Distinguished Teaching Award from Kent State University. He served as the
Founding President of NALMS and the President of the Ohio Lake Management Society. He
published more than 60 refereed articles, 5 books, and wrote many reports. He is well- known
for his first authorship of Restoration and Management of Lakes and Reservoirs (2005. 3rd
Edition. Taylor and Francis). His research was generously supported by the USEPA, the NSF, the
AWWA, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He retired in 2003 and was appointed Emeritus
Professor. He then served as one of two limnologists for the State of Oklahoma in an
investigation and court trial regarding the impacts of disposal of poultry wastes to the Illinois
River and Tenkiller Reservoir (OK). Dr. Cooke served in the United States Navy and was
honorably discharged.
Abstract: Freshwater is essential and there is a limited amount. Conflicts over water intensify as
demand increases, supply declines, and water is used as a weapon or objective, or is part of an
economic struggle. Climate change is an intensifying factor. The Middle East/North Africa
Region, the driest place on Earth, has water at the root of several intense and current military
conflicts. The presentation covers some of these and may shed some light on causes of these
conflicts. In the USA, as portions of the Nation become drier from climate change and increased
demand, major conflicts are evident, especially in the Southwest and Southeast. Eastern USA
has more abundant water but pollution is an issue. Our present water conflicts and problems
will become more intense in the future for the USA, and immigration, science denial, and an
aversion to paying for needed changes may make solutions more difficult.
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Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 1 – Mineral Resources Management
German Village Room 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Title: Use of Flue Gas Desulfurization By-products for Coal Mine Land Reclamation - Author: Dr.
Butalia Tarunjit, The Ohio State University
Biography: Dr. Tarunjit S. Butalia, an internationally known researcher and scholar, serves as
the Director of the Coal Combustion Products Program at The Ohio State University. Dr. Butalia
is a Research Scientist in the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geodetic Engineering at
The Ohio State University. His technical specialty is the characterization of natural and synthetic
materials and their use in technically sound, environmentally benign, and commercially
competitive applications including infrastructure rehabilitation. Dr. Butalia obtained his Ph.D.
degree in Engineering from The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA in 1997. He is a
registered Professional Engineer. He has provided leadership to several CCP research and
demonstration projects totaling over $25 million in the last 15 years and has authored,
presented and/or published more than 150 technical papers and book articles. He serves on the
Advisory Board of the International Pittsburgh Coal Conference and is a member of the Editorial
Board of the Journal of Coal Combustion and Gasification Products.
Abstract: Unreclaimed mine lands present serious threats to human health, public safety, and
the environment. Using coal combustion by-products (CCBs), e.g., flue gas desulfurization (FGD)
by-products, as backfill material can be an effective and economical approach to re-contour the
original landscape of unreclaimed mine lands, eliminate highwalls, and abate acid mine
drainage (AMD). In this study, the engineering and environmental responses of using FGD
materials to reclaim mine lands are investigated. The effectiveness of using stabilized FGD
material for coal mine reclamation and AMD neutralization is investigated in a bench-scale mine
highwall reclamation testing module. The bench-scale testing module simulates the conditions
similar to AMD penetrating stabilized FGD material during and after mine highwall reclamation
under a number of potential placement designs of stabilized FGD material against a mine
highwall for AMD treatment. The flow of AMD within the mass of the fill as well as the change
of AMD water quality along the path of flow are investigated. The bench-scale investigations
will produce parameters needed in the design for a full-scale demonstration project, in which an
AMD-producing unreclaimed coal mine highwall complex located at Cheshire, OH will be
reclaimed. In addition to the bench-scale study, two full-scale reclamation projects of varying
constructability and fill material combinations are carried out at two unreclaimed mine lands
near American Electric Power (AEP)’s Conesville and Cardinal power plants. About 1 and 0.5
million tons of FGD by-products are currently being placed at the Conesville and Cardinal
demonstration sites, respectively. The changes of the water qualities of the upper-most aquifer
systems underlying the reclamation sites are studied to assess the environmental responses. The
overall goal of these studies is to assess the potential of using high-volume CCBs in a manner
that is economically viable and beneficial to the environment, the public’s health and safety, and
the generating industry.
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Title: Steel Slag Leach Bed Longevity Analysis- Authors: Sarah Landers, Raccoon Creek
Partnership; Sarah Maj, Amy Mackey, & Natalie Kruse, Ohio University
Biography: Sarah Landers has served as the Raccoon Creek Water Quality Specialist since
2011. This position is a joint venture between the Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Division of Mineral Resources Management, Ohio Valley Resource Conservation and
Development Council, The Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs at Ohio University,
Vinton County Soil and Water Conservation District, and Raccoon Creek Partnership. Sarah
received her Master’s in City and Regional Planning from the Ohio State University in 2008. She
manages chemical and biological water quality data collection, data reporting, and monitors
and maintains acid mine drainage treatment and reclamation projects in the Raccoon Creek
Watershed.
Abstract: The Raccoon Creek watershed, located in southeastern Ohio, utilizes a mixture of
source control, passive, and active treatment projects to remediate acid mine drainage (AMD)
polluted waters within the 684 square mile watershed. Fifteen steel slag leach beds (SSLBs) are
utilized as a passive treatment strategy throughout the watershed. The oldest steel slag leach
beds were installed in 2004 and the most recent in 2011. Each bed is designed differently to
account for individual site variation, however each consists of a liner, PVC piping, and steel slag
bed material. Newer project designs allow for discharge rates to be manually adjusted by valves
which control the quantity of water entering the bed. With the ability to regulate the amount of
water flowing through the bed comes the opportunity to fine tune the level of treatment to
meet project goals without over treating and prematurely exhausting the alkalinity in the beds.
The objective of this work was to estimate the useful lifespan of the slag and evaluate treatment
targets by determining target alkalinity loads for SSLB discharges based on the acid loads of the
AMD receiving tributaries targeted for treatment. Current and past alkalinity loads from each
SSLB were used to estimate the alkalinity generating potential of each bed related to the flow
rate through the bed. The acid load of the receiving tributary being treated was calculated
based on multiple years of long term monitoring data. This information was applied to the
treatment goal of each bed to determine a target operational flow rate. The capability to better
estimate the useful lifespan of a SSLB will enable agencies to better estimate long term project
maintenance costs and enable those individuals maintaining systems to choose appropriate
flow rates to meet treatment goals without prematurely exhausting the alkalinity of the bed.
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Title: Using Abandoned Underground Mine Pools at Heat Pumps - Author: Dr. Dina Lopez, Ohio
University
Biography: Dina L. Lopez is professor of Geochemistry and Hydrogeology and Chair of the
Department of Geological Sciences, Ohio University. She graduated with a BS in Chemistry and
Physics from the University of El Salvador, a M.Sc. in Physics from Virginia Tech, and a Ph.D. in
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Geology from Louisiana State University. Her fields of interest are Geochemistry and
Hydrogeology.
Abstract: Our study is focused on characterizing the potential heat exchange capacity for
flooded mine in Ohio. To calculate the potential exchange capacity, possible maximum and
minimum mine water residence times, effective mine volumes, groundwater recharge rates,
maximum and minimum possible linear groundwater velocity, groundwater flow direction, and
average ambient mine temperatures were calculated. Looking at 147 different mines located
less than 1 mile from cities, this study has estimated that an average of 10^10 kJ of heat per
mine is extractable. A change in mine water temperature of 1 degree Celsius was used for this
calculation. From the groundwater velocities, the average potential flux of heat to the mines
was 10^9 kJ/year.
The Corning Mine Complex (CMC), located in Perry County Ohio, was studied for thermal and
hydrological evaluation to understand heat flow within the mine complex and to determine the
effect of atmospheric and hydrologic changes. Temperature and hydraulic head sensors were
installed into monitoring wells drilled into the CMC. Time series analysis was performed on the
data to detect the temporal relationship between the thermal and hydrological parameters. The
results of this study show that the waters within this mine is locally thermally stable (± .2 K), but
vary within the mine complex. A linear relationship between water temperatures and
overburden thickness was observed within the CMC. The temperature data yielded a regulation
time of 6.1 months suggesting that the heat exchange between the thermal reservoir of the
atmosphere and the thermal reservoir of the mine complex is defined by seasonal fluctuations in
ambient air temperature. The heat available to exchange for the CMC was calculated as 3.24 x
1010 kJ/K. Overall, these results suggest that the mine is thermally stable and that water flow is
slow enough to allow thermal equilibrium between the rocks and the water.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 2 – Ohio Dam Safety Organization (ODSO)
Oak Room 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Title: Integrating the City of Columbus Upground Reservoirs into the Scioto River Water
Resource System: Part 1- Record-Setting John R. Doutt Reservoir Adds Source - Authors: Jeff
Brooks, City of Columbus & Ken Ricker, ms consultants
Biography: Mr. Brooks joined the City of Columbus, Ohio, Department of Public Utilities in
1989. Since 1991 he has coordinated new construction maintenance and compliance for the
Division of Water’s three existing high hazard dams and associated water supply reservoirs, one
of which powers a 5 MW hydroelectric generator. / Kenneth Ricker, PE - Mr. Ricker has over 31
years of experience- 24 years at ms consultants- assisting clients in a the planning, design,
financing and construction of a variety of projects, including public water supply, treatment,
and distribution, wastewater collection & treatment, solid and hazardous waste management.
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Abstract: The Scioto River begins about 80 miles north of Columbus in Hardin County and serves
as a main water source for Central Ohio. The watershed drainage area reaches 1000 square
miles just north of Columbus, provides public recreational opportunities and a habitat for
aquatic life.
This presentation describes how the recently completed John R. Doutt Upground Reservoir has
become an integral component of the Scioto River Water Resource System. This off-stream
reservoir will provide additional source supply, and along with the existing on-stream reservoirs,
to help meet future water demands of customers being served by the Columbus’ Dublin Road
Water Plant during a 50-year drought, as well as to provide additional source supply for the DelCo Water Company.
The physical size and innovative design of this 9.2-billion-gallon, 850-acre off-stream raw water
supply impoundment is record setting, as the earth embankments have a 5-mile perimeter,
making it the longest Class I Dam in Ohio. The reservoir’s composite lined bottom, installed due
to Karst limestone geology underlying the site, is one of the world’s largest and consists of 37
million square feet of geomembrane and 2 million cubic yards of compacted clay liner (CCL).
The presentation will:
 Summarize the source supply/storage components and associated facilities; and describe
how the Scioto River is being used for conveyance thus deferring millions of dollars for
pipeline construction.
 Identify existing/planned public water systems for Columbus and Del-Co Water that will
utilize this source supply.
 Focus on guidelines developed to identify when stream flows are conducive for flow
diversion to reservoir, permissible diversion rates based on regulatory constraints, and
downstream flows to be maintained.
 Conclude with strategies developed for the timing, rate and duration of the release of
stored water from the upground reservoirs back to the Scioto River to maximize the
overall safe yield, and when refill should be initiated.
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Title: Fly Ash Dam Raising Using Nonconventional Components - Author: Dr. Mohammad
Ajlouni, American Electric Power
Biography: Mohammad Ajlouni is a Senior Engineer at the geotechnical Engineering Section at
American Electric Power who has worked there for the last 9 years. His work duties include
permitting, design, and construction of landfills and dams, as well as, modeling geotechnical
activities. Before AEP, he worked for 4 years at URS –Gaithersburg/MD Tunneling Group on
Design and Construction of Tunnels. Mohammad has a bachelor’s of civil engineering and
Master’s in civil Engineering from Jordan University of Science and Technology. Mohammad has
PhD in geotechnical engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign.
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Abstract: Cardinal Fly Ash Reservoir No. 2 (FAR2) dam is a coal ash dam located in eastern Ohio.
The dam was originally constructed as a conventional zoned earth dam in 1985 and featured an
inclined clay core and full height chimney drain. In 1997, the dam was raised to a height of 225
feet through the use of an upstream soil cement block in conjunction with a downstream earth
fill. In 2011, design work was started to assess the stability and schedule concerns and cost
effectiveness of various methods to raise the dam again. Initially a conventional downstream
raising approach was assessed which would have required a half million cubic yards of
engineered fill. A structural parapet wall was also examined which would have required a costly
foundation system. In both cases, it was doubtful that work could be completed over the course
of a single construction season. To satisfy unique site requirements and meet a timely need for
increased storage capacity, a back to back Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) wall system was
designed and constructed to increase the height of the ash storage dam.
The double-sided MSE wall system that was ultimately developed overcame both site
constraints and achieved the timely need for additional capacity. This innovative design resulted
from the unusual geometry of the existing dam crest coupled with the need to complete
construction over the course of single season. To control seepage, a cement-bentonite slurry
wall was constructed which penetrated into the existing clay core. A non-structural vinyl sheet
pile wall was then inserted full depth through the slurry wall and extended to the top of the
raised dam to act as a cutoff wall within the MSE wall portion. The raised dam also includes a
modified emergency spillway composed of mass concrete, and a precast service spillway
extension.
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Title: Emergency Warning Systems - Author: Jon Kochis, Fairfield County Emergency
Management Agency
Biography: Jon Kochis has been the Fairfield County EMA Director since 2007. Jon has a
Bachelors in Emergency Management and Associates in Environmental Health and Safety from
the University of Akron. The Buckeye Lake Dam Safety program has been a cornerstone project
for the Buckeye Lake Region and has included new warning technology implementation and the
recipient of competitive grant awards.
Abstract: Fairfield and Licking County Emergency Management Agencies have put together a
warning system for the Buckeye Lake area. This system encompasses many forms of emergency
public information to warn residents of potential hazards in the Buckeye Lake Area.
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Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 3 – Ohio Lake Management Society (OLMS) – Water Quality
Alder Room 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Title: Color variation in fishes across turbidity extremes in East Africa - Author: Dr. Suzanne
Gray, The Ohio State University
Biography: Dr. Suzanne Gray joined OSU’s School of Environment and Natural Resources in
2013 as an Assistant Professor of Aquatic Physiological Ecology. Her research focuses on
understanding how freshwater fishes respond to human-induced environmental change. Work
in the Gray Lab currently explores these responses in a wide range of fishes, from cyprinids in
the North American Great Lakes to cichlids in East Africa.
Abstract: Sedimentary turbidity is a globally pervasive environmental stressor that is linked to
declines in fish biodiversity. Turbidity alters the color and clarity of the water, which can directly
alter the visual capabilities of fishes and have population-level impacts if foraging, mating and
anti-predator activities are hindered. Here, we investigate the responses of fishes found across a
range of turbidity levels in East Africa. We assessed ontongentic color shifts in the introduced
Nile Perch (Lates nilotiocus) predator in a highly turbid lake, male color shifts in a
mouthbrooding African cichlid (Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor ) that ranges from clear swamps to
turbid lakes, and color pattern changes in introduced guppy (Poecilia reticulata) populations in a
series of crater lakes experiencing improved water quality due to lake restoration efforts. We
used field surveys to capture natural phenotypic variation associated with development in
complex, dynamic environments by measuring fish color patterns and the underwater light
environment where the fish are found. We found that turbidity can induce color pattern and
behavioral changes in addition to morphological change in sensory structures such as eyes and
optic lobes of the brain. Such adaptations may allow individuals to cope with altered
environmental conditions.
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Title: Mind the Gap: The Federal Funding Gap Between Fundamental Research and
Fundamental Solutions for Harmful Algal Blooms - Author: Dr. Stephanie Smith, Beagle
Bioproducts
Biography: Dr. Smith is the Co-founder and Chief Scientific and Operating Officer of Beagle
Bioproducts, Inc., a company that offers a variety of products and services related to harmful
algal blooms. She is a recognized expert on HAB toxins and cyanobacteria, and has used that
expertise and her position as a small business owner to understand both the technical and
political issues related to HABs.
Abstract: Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are more frequent and more intense than they have ever
been since the USEPA began tracking them in the 1970s. The negative impacts of HABs range
from devaluation of lakefront properties to the deaths of pets and threats to human health. It
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has been a challenge to put a precise figure on the actual economic impacts of HABs, especially
in freshwaters. While Ohio’s residents and businesses are painfully aware of the impacts a HAB
can have, in many parts of the country people have never even heard of HABs. So how, then,
does the federal government “value” this issue?
One way to assess this is to follow the history of the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research
and Control Act (HABHRCA), which was first passed by Congress in 1998. At Beagle Bioproducts
we have constructed a timeline of renewals, amendments, and appropriations related to this
legislation. What our investigation demonstrates is that the legislation has supported critical
fundamental research that has elucidated some of the root causes of HABs. However, there has
been an overwhelming bias in at least two regards: support has largely been for coastal areas
and red tides, and there has been almost no involvement of the private sector in HABHRCArelated projects. The result, in our opinion, is that practical solutions to this problem will be slow
to emerge, even while our understanding of the problem strengthens. Beagle will present
suggestions and recommendations for increasing the potential benefits of this legislation, and
for how residents and businesses that are most impacted by HABs can make their voices heard.
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Title: Excess nitrogen stimulates cyanobacteria growth and toxin production - Author: Dr. Justin
Chaffin, Ohio Sea Grant
Biography: Dr. Justin Chaffin has been the research coordinator at The Ohio State University’s
Stone Laboratory since 2012. He received his PhD from the University of Toledo working mainly
from their Lake Erie Center.
Abstract: Blooms of cyanobacteria often occur in waters that have high phosphorus (P) and low
nitrogen (N) concentrations, and the growth rate of the cyanobacteria is often constrained by N.
For these reasons, many scientists have suggested that regulation of both P and N is required to
prevent blooms. However, because N occurs in many bioavailable forms, regulation of a
particular form may be beneficial rather than regulation of all N forms. To address how Nstressed cyanobacteria growth and toxin production responds to various N inputs, N enrichment
experiments (nitrate, ammonium, urea) were performed during N-limited cyanobacterial blooms
in Maumee and Sandusky Bays of Lake Erie and in Grand Lake St. Marys (GLSM). Bioavailable N
(nitrate, urea, and ammonium) concentrations were also determined. Microcystis aeruginosa
dominated the Maumee Bay bloom, where the highest growth rates were in response to
ammonium additions, and lowest growth rates were in response to nitrate. Urea resulted in
intermediate growth rates. All forms of N resulted in similar microcystin concentrations that
were greater than control and phosphate-only enrichment. Planktothrix agardhii dominated the
Sandusky Bay and GLSM blooms, where nitrate, ammonium, and urea addition resulted in
similar growth rates and microcystin concentrations. Incubations using stable isotope 15N
showed the cyanobacteria had a preference for ammonium, but the other N forms were also
assimilated in the presence of ammonium. These results show that cyanobacterial blooms will
assimilate multiple forms of N to support growth and microcystin production. These results
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suggest that N loadings above current levels will exacerbate cyanobacterial bloom, but do not
answer the question regarding the need to lower N loading. However, all forms of bioavailable
N need to be constrained if lake managers do decide that N abatement is needed.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 1 – Education and Outreach
German Village Room 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Title: Utilizing “Project WET” and “Healthy Water, Healthy People” in the Development of Ohio’s
Water Conservation Education Program - Authors: Leonard Black, Ohio Dept. of Natural
Resources & Dennis Clement, Ohio EPA
Biographies: Leonard Black has worked in the Water Planning Program at ODNR for 33 years,
served as the State Coordinator for Project WET for 15 years (until 2012), and currently serves
as the Ohio Project Wet Workshop Coordinator under contract with the Water Resources
Foundation of Ohio.
Dennis Clement has worked in the Office of Environmental Education at the Ohio EPA for 13
years and has served as the State Coordinator for the Healthy Water Healthy People program
for the past 10 years.
Abstract: The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact requires the
development of a program for water conservation. Ohio’s program provides information and
education concerning the importance and value of water conservation and promotes voluntary
water conservation practices. An important component of Ohio’s program will be outreach,
both into the community and the classroom. The presentation will provide a description of the
recently-revised Project WET Curriculum & Activity Guide 2.0 and other Project WET materials
and how they will be incorporated into Ohio’s Water Conservation Education Program. Since
Ohio’s program also emphasizes the importance of water quality as an element of water
conservation, the presentation will also describe how the Healthy Water, Healthy People
Program will be incorporated into Ohio’s program. An update on the activities of the Ohio
Water Education Program (sponsored by WMAO/WRFO, ODNR, Ohio EPA, and OSU-WRC) will
also be provided.
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Title: The Science – Management Nexus in a Complex Institutional Setting: Promoting
Agricultural Best Management Practices in the Western Lake Erie Basin - Author: Pranay Ranjan,
The Ohio State University
Biography: Pranay is a doctoral candidate in the environmental social sciences specialization
area, in the School of Environment & Natural Resources at The Ohio State University. His
research interests include understanding the role of collective action in drainage management
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institutions. Prior to beginning his studies at Ohio State, Pranay has worked for two years on
understanding water security in peri-urban South-Asia.
Abstract: This presentation will share results from a year-long study funded by Ohio EPA into
the characteristics of effective watershed group leaders. Twenty watershed professionals
identified as effective leaders were interviewed to develop a more complex understanding of the
factors that lead some watershed leaders to be more effective than others. Results from the
interviews are compared with factors identified through a literature review to create a
conceptual model of the multiple factors that support or undermine watershed group leaders.
Implications for training, hiring, and supporting watershed leaders will be discussed.
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Title: New funding opportunities for water education - Authors: Carolyn Watkins & Dennis
Clement, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
Biographies: As Chief of Ohio EPA's Office of Environmental Education, Carolyn Watkins
oversees a grant program that provides $1 million annually to fund environmental education
projects targeting pre-school to university students and teachers, the general public and the
regulated community. She also administers Ohio EPA’s environmental science and engineering
scholarship program. Her office provides statewide coordination for Project WET (Water
Education for Teachers) and its high school curriculum Healthy Water, Healthy People.
Dennis Clement has worked in the Office of Environmental Education at the Ohio EPA for 13
years and has served as the State Coordinator for the Healthy Water Healthy People program
for the past 10 years.
Abstract: The Ohio Environmental Education Fund recently realigned application criteria to
more closely reflect Ohio EPA's regulatory priorities. In 2015, OEEF seeks to fund projects that
demonstrate and encourage the use of innovative storm water management practices, best
management practices to reduce nutrient loadings to streams, and habitat restoration. Target
audiences include the regulated community, schools and universities, and the general public
including broad-based public awareness campaigns. Recently funded topics include the benefits
of wetlands, dam removals and stream meander restoration; green infrastructure; homeowner
maintenance of septic systems; vulnerability of underground water supplies in karst terrain; and
sharing data from citizen monitoring of lakes and streams. Examples will illustrate how to make
education programs more effective (and grant applications more successful!).
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Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 2 – Water Quality
Oak Room 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Title: Headwater Stream Assessment - Author: Elayna Stierhoff, City of Columbus
Biography: Elayna Stierhoff is a Water Protection Coordinator with the City of Columbus,
Department of Public Utilities, Division of Water, Watershed Management Section.
Abstract: Elayna Stierhoff will present details of a current project assessing water quality in the
headwater streams for the watershed feeding Hoover Reservoir. Elayna will provide details of
performing an Index of Biological Integrity (IBI) using fish and QHEI to document water quality.
Elayna will provide information about the credentials needed to do this work at the regulatory
level and details of the required equipment and permits. In-stream pictures will depict the work
and process. Talk will cover the use of GIS to define basins and select sampling sites, as well as
the benefits of getting to know the watershed and positive relationship building with the
landowners. Benefits can result in the acquisition of conservation easements and the
implementation of Best Management Practices.
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Title: Improving In-Situ Sequestration of Contaminants in Sediment Using Ultrasound - Authors:
Zongsu Wei, Dr. Linda Weavers, & Dr. John Lenhart, The Ohio State University
Biography: Zongsu Wei is currently a PhD candidate in Environmental Engineering at the
Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geodetic Engineering, The Ohio State University. He
received his B.S. in Environmental Engineering from University of Science and Technology
Beijing, China, in 2008 and his M.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Toledo, OH, in
2010. His research interests include water and wastewater treatments, sustainable technology
for environmental remediation, and contaminant fate and transport modeling.
Abstract: Sediment contamination by toxic organic compounds and heavy metals is a significant
concern in the Great Lakes region. The contaminated sediment acting as a natural pollution
source poses a long term risk to the aquatic ecosystem. Some persistent contaminants (e.g.,
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon) accumulate in biota and are passed up the food chain. The
bio-accumulative toxics in fish could endanger fish-eating wildlife and humans. Traditional
technologies of capping sediment in place and dredging sediment to a waste landfill are energyintensive, expensive, and destructive to the environment. The in-situ amendment using sorbents
(e.g., activated carbon) is a new direction in the sediment managements. The application of
ultrasound has potential to increase contaminant mass transfer from the sediment solids to
sorbents, thus improving amendment effectiveness. The sonication in short period features high
energy efficiency, low operational cost, no chemical addition, and reduced risk of secondary
contamination.
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The goal of this study is to evaluate the effects of ultrasound waves on sediment solids, pore
flow hydrodynamics, and contaminant release and re-sorption on activated carbon. We
measured sound penetration, Darcy velocity, and tracer tests, followed by model contaminant
(i.e., pyrene) desorption through a bench-scale column packed with model sediments.
Hydrophone measurements showed that the intensity of ultrasound dropped quickly due to
absorption and scattering by the sediment. However, both pore size and pore water
temperature was increased after a short period of sonication resulting in an increased porosity
and reduced fluid viscosity. This enhanced Darcy velocity by 42.6% and accelerated bromide
tracer breakthrough of packed column. The presence of ultrasound has also increased the
availability of pyrene by almost one magnitude in the pore water. The results demonstrate the
potential of sonication to improve in-situ sequestration of contaminants in the sediment.
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Title: Urban Lake Assessment: Water Quality and Lake Condition in Cuyahoga County, Ohio Author: Dr. Julie Wolin, Cleveland State University
Biography: Dr. Wolin is a freshwater ecologist and Associate Professor in the Department of
Biological, Geological and Environmental Science at Cleveland State University. Her primary
research focus is to understand the effects of human activities in urban and urbanizing
environments on freshwater ecosystems.
Abstract: To better understand the functional role of water bodies in urban and suburban
regions, we conducted a county-wide assessment of lakes, reservoirs, and retention ponds in
Cuyahoga County, OH in 2013. Physical characteristics, surrounding land use, waterfowl
presence, shoreline vegetation, water chemistry, microcystin, and surface sediments for diatom
analysis were sampled at forty sites following protocols developed for the 2012 US National
Lake Assessment (NLA) and the Ohio EPA Inland Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program.
Surveys were conducted to determine lake management practices i.e. fertilizer use, dredging,
and method of algal control. Grass was the dominant shoreline vegetation. Our results indicate
40-50% of the sample sites had poor shoreline habitat, comparable to 41% of man-made lakes
found in the 2007 NLA. Visual algal assessment indicated moderate to extensive algae in 34%
and detectable algae in 57% of the lakes. Microcystis was visible at 50% of the sites, while
microcystin concentrations above WHO drinking water guidelines (1ug/l) were only found in
three lakes. Surface sediment diatom community analysis indicate dominant factors
contributing to lake condition are nutrient gradients and depth.
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Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 3 – Ohio Lake Management Society (OLMS) - Stewardship
Alder Room 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Title: Regional differences in attitudes towards water quality - Author: Dr. Robert Carlson, Ohio
Lake Management Society
Biography: Bob Carlson is an emeritus professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at
Kent State University, where he taught since 1975. He directs an all-volunteer international
water quality monitoring event in July called the Secchi Dip-In. The goal of the project is to
demonstrate that volunteers can collect environmentally-important, and scientifically relevant,
information over large geographic scales.
Abstract: Water transparency, as measured with a Secchi disk, has become an inexpensive and
popular measure of one aspect of water quality. Numerous studies in glaciated parts of North
America have found that as water transparency decreases, the property values along the
shoreline decrease as well.
The Secchi Dip-In is an effort to provide Secchi disk transparency readings using volunteers from
programs across the United States and Canada. Dip-In volunteers were also asked to provide
their perspective of the quality of their waterbody. The Dip-In data was used to substantiate the
relationship between transparency and perception of water quality on a continental scale.
The relationship between transparency and the volunteer’s perception of water quality found in
previous studies was substantiated in the northern, glaciated regions of North America.
However, the relationship decreased or disappeared entirely in other parts of the continent.
Transparency is an excellent indicator of quality in the upper Midwest and the Northeast, but is
not related to perceived water quality in regions where the average transparency is low.
Volunteers also perceived the problems in their lakes differently in different regions.
The results alter our view of water quality in that the perception of quality changes regionally.
Human activities, such as boating congestion and personal watercraft, are perceived to be
major water quality problems in non-glaciated regions. This suggests that resource
management should also consider regional perceptions of quality and problems instead of using
a generic formula that low transparencies are “bad” and water quality problems are largely
related to algae.
~-~
Title: Communicating Watershed Facts Using GIS - Author: Jim Swihart, Choctaw Lake Property
Owners Association
Biography: Jim retired to Choctaw Lake in 2011 and became active in OLMS’s CLAM program as
the QDC/Lake Keeper for the lake. He is a member of the Choctaw Lake Board of Trustees and
Page | 15
is also Chairman of the Lake Water Quality Committee. He has put his engineering background
to use in collecting, analyzing and communicating water quality data to his community and in
formulating a water quality improvement plan for Choctaw.
Abstract: We all know that lakes accumulate things, that they are a reflection of their
watershed. While a lake is easy to visualize, a watershed is not. Over the years, a lot of
misinformation has been informally passed around regarding our watershed. At Choctaw Lake,
we have extensively used GIS tools and data to gain a factual understanding of our watershed,
what is in it, and just as important, what is not. Using the GIS data available from public and
private sources, we have been able to make our watershed 'visual' and communicate relevant
facts to the residents of our lake community. Using GIS visuals is far more effective than just
written articles or bullet-point slides, which often result in misunderstanding of key facts.
Gaining a solid understanding of our watershed is key to focusing our lake water quality
improvement efforts on the right issues in the right location.
GIS software is available free on-line. Many Ohio county governments have made their GIS data
files available to the public via the County Auditor's websites. Parcel boundaries, parcel
information, land use data, lake and stream data and more is often available. Additionally, the
USGS Ohio Streamstats site allows users to download GIS files exactly defining the watershed
for a lake, stream or pond. Combining this GIS information along with other information
available from the Ohio EPA GIS site allows one to gain a very good understanding of a given
watershed. By using the official sources of information it removes speculation and opinions and
allows for a common understanding and focused improvement effort.
~-~
Title: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly, a Community's Response to a Lake in Crisis - Author: Donna
Grube, Auglaize & Mercer County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Biography: Donna Grube has served as the Executive director for the Auglaize & Mercer
Counties Convention & Visitors Bureau for 11 years after working more than 20 years as a
reporter and News Director for several west Ohio radio stations. Donna and her husband Mark
moved to the lake eight years ago so she can share the story of Grand Lake St. Marys from both
a professional and personal point of view.
Abstract: This presentation is a look at how the local residents reacted to the algae toxin issues
at Grand Lake St. Marys and the subsequent publicity generated by the state postings. What
were the financial ramifications? How did the agency charged with promoting the area for
tourism adapt its message and how are things six summers after the alarm first sounded?
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Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 1 – Next Generation of Water Professionals
German Village Room 3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Title: Nature vs Nurture: What makes for an effective watershed group leader? - Authors: Dr.
Joe Bonnell, Dr. Anne Baird, Dallas Hettinger, & Pranay Ranjan, The Ohio State University
Biography: Joe Bonnell is Program Director for Watershed Management at The Ohio State
University. His work is focused on building capacity in Ohio to develop and implement
watershed management plans.
Abstract: This presentation will share results from a year-long study funded by Ohio EPA into
the characteristics of effective watershed group leaders. Twenty watershed professionals
identified as effective leaders were interviewed to develop a more complex understanding of the
factors that lead some watershed leaders to be more effective than others. Results from the
interviews are compared with factors identified through a literature review to create a
conceptual model of the multiple factors that support or undermine watershed group leaders.
Implications for training, hiring, and supporting watershed leaders will be discussed.
~-~
Title: Recruiting the Next Generation of Water Management Professionals - Author: Carolyn
Watkins, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
Biography: As Chief of Ohio EPA's Office of Environmental Education, Carolyn Watkins oversees
a grant program that provides $1 million annually to fund environmental education projects
targeting pre-school to university students and teachers, the general public and the regulated
community. She also administers Ohio EPA’s environmental science and engineering
scholarship program. Her office provides statewide coordination for Project WET (Water
Education for Teachers) and its high school curriculum Healthy Water, Healthy People.
Abstract: Ohio students, teachers and even career counselors have little understanding of what
we do as water management professionals. Environmental scientists and engineers are needed
to showcase our profession. State education standards strongly emphasize introducing students
to real-world examples of careers in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and
mathematics, including career paths through two-year technical degree programs and four-year
baccalaureate degrees. Ohio EPA is partnering with the Environmental Education Council of
Ohio and OSU's School of Environment and Natural Resources to offer a free online program
that matches environmental professionals with schools and colleges looking for classroom
presentations, career day programs, field trip destinations, and shadowing and mentoring
opportunities for their students. Career ambassadors are needed in every Ohio county. This
presentation will showcase some successful case studies and explain how WMAO members can
get involved.
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Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 2 – Fish Science
Oak Room 3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Title: Valuing the Lake Erie Fishery - Authors: Kevin Kayle & Jeff Tyson, Ohio Department of
Natural Resources
Biographies: Kevin Kayle is the Fish Biology Supervisor for the ODNR, Division of Wildlife’s
Fairport Harbor Fisheries Research Unit. He participates in the Great Lakes Fishery
Commission’s Lake Erie Committee as a member of the Walleye, Yellow Perch, and Coldwater
Task Groups, where he is a former co-chairman. Kevin is also a past president of the Ohio
Chapter of the American Fisheries Society and past webmaster at OCAFS and the AFS Fisheries
Information and Technology Section.
Abstract: Lake Erie represents a substantial portion of the surface waters of the state of Ohio
and of the Great Lakes region. Recreational and commercial fisheries are an important
economic driver for the area. While each fisheries management agency applies their own
regulations, all jurisdictions participate in interagency management under the auspices of the
Great Lakes Fishery Commission and the Joint Strategic Plan and Fish Community Goals and
Objectives. Managing agencies and external partners work toward assigning valuations to their
fisheries and to management actions associated with the fisheries or other external impacts to
the fisheries. We discuss current assessment and valuation techniques and present estimated
values of sport, charter, and commercial fisheries on the open waters of Lake Erie, and methods
used to place value on shoreline and tributary fisheries. We discuss how these estimates differ
and compare their uses. We discuss constructs put in place like Marine Stewardship Certification
and the Lake Erie Percid Management Advisory Group that seek to incorporate a measure of
transparent, precautionary management. New human dimensions survey techniques can assess
not only the economic value, but the social values placed on these fisheries by those that
participate in fishing. Even with the assessment and survey techniques in use today, there are
still gaps and inadequacies in completing the economic and social valuation picture. There are
also difficulties defining these values and performing adequate evaluations during variable
conditions that are due to aquatic nuisance species, harmful algal blooms, and changing lake
and climate conditions that all have a direct effect on patterns of human behavior associated
with the Lake Erie region. While considerable progress has been made on this topic, more
detailed and wide-ranging work needs to be done by all participating agencies and
stakeholders.
~-~
Title: Impacts of Shoreline Alteration on the Nearshore Fish Community of Western Lake Erie Authors: Dr. Christine Mayer, Jason Ross, Jeff Tyson, & Eric Weimer, University of Toledo
Page | 18
Biography: Dr. Mayer is a professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences and Lake Erie
Center at the University of Toledo. She's been on the faculty, there, for 11 years. Most of the
current work in her lab centers on the impacts of human modification to aquatic habitats.
Abstract: Across the Great Lakes biodiversity and habitat complexity are greatest within the
nearshore zone making this area a driver of ecosystem function. In the Ohio waters of Lake Erie
nearly 90% of the shoreline has been altered. The impacts of shoreline alteration on fish
communities are poorly understood in the Great Lakes since most fishery assessments focus on
offshore zones. Our goal was to quantify the reduction in fish species richness and frequency of
occurrence on shores that have been armored or had vegetation removed. Fish diversity was
lower on armored shorelines in wetlands, but not when the background shoreline type was soft
substrate. Sites with vegetation always had higher fish diversity. Future management and
guidelines for shoreline alteration should take into account the benefits of limiting armoring and
increasing vegetation in order to further promote ecosystem services along the shorelines.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Concurrent 3 – Ohio Lake Management Society (OLMS) – Buckeye Lake: A Case Study
Alder Room 3:15 pm – 4:45 pm
Title: Exploring Buckeye Lake's Origins, History as a Canal Lake, and Early Lake Studies - Author:
Michael Gallaway, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
Biography: Mike Gallaway has worked in the Division of Surface Water at the Ohio EPA since
1984. He is currently the Manager of the Surface Water Program in the Central District Office,
where he is responsible for implementing the Clean Water Act in 10 Central Ohio counties.
Mike has a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Miami University, and a Master’s degree in
Zoology from Ohio University.
Abstract: Originally called the “Licking Summit Reservoir”, Buckeye Lake was an early catalyst
for commercial growth in Ohio due to its role in providing water for the Ohio Canal. We look at
Buckeye Lake’s origins based on the work of Wilbur Stout, look at early surveys of the “Big
Swamp”, and consider its conversion to a canal reservoir. We also consider early limnological
studies of the lake as it continues its evolution from an economic driver to a recreational driver.
We compare the early studies with recent data from 2011 and 2012.
~-~
Title: Buckeye Lake Nutrient Reduction Project - Author: Jonathan Ferbrache, Fairfield SWCD
Biography: Jonathan is a Resource Specialist for the Fairfield Soil and Water Conservation
District. He’s a Fairfield County native and a graduate of The Ohio State University, with a
Bachelor’s of Science in Landscape Architecture. He coordinates the Fairfield County farmland
preservation programs, reviews and responds to agriculture and silviculture pollution
complaints, administers aspects of the municipal separate storm sewer system programs (MS4)
Page | 19
in Fairfield County and the City of Pickerington, and conducts plan review and erosion
inspections. His specialty work currently includes the Buckeye Lake Nutrient Reduction Project.
Abstract: The Buckeye Lake Nutrient Reduction Project was funded in part by 319 Grant Funding
from the Ohio EPA. The Fairfield Soil and Water Conservation District used the funding to put
boots on the ground across the Buckeye Lake watershed and conducted a comprehensive
inventory and analysis of the tributaries that feed the lake. All 77 miles were inventoried, soil
samples collected and the watershed boundary redefined. Efforts put forth were also supported
by three other Ohio Farm Bureau Federation grants over several years. Partnerships with the
lake community through the Buckeye Lake for Tomorrow and local SWCD relationships with the
agriculture community in Fairfield, Licking and Perry County have provided a frame work for the
long term in addressing lake water quality issues and understanding of the challenges faced by
the various stakeholders across the watershed.
~-~
Title: Buckeye Lake Update - Presentation of 2014 Data - Author: Jeffrey Bohne, Ohio
Environmental Protection Agency
Abstract: Ohio EPA is continuing to support development of a local nutrient management plan
with ongoing data collection. We present the current year’s data, and contrast it with data
collected in 2011 and 2012. Long term voluntary monitoring data are used to provide
perspective on our more recent data. These data are evaluated using the Trophic State Index
(TSI) to evaluate any potential trends in lake water quality.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 1 – Wetlands
German Village Room 8:30 am – 10:00 am
Title: Ohio River Basin Wetland Conservation Planning Project - Author: Jerome Iles, The Ohio
State University
Abstract: The Ohio Division of Forestry manages over 200,000 acres of state forest within the
Ohio River Basin (ORB), and therefore has a significant influence on water quality issues.
Forested wetlands carry out critical hydrologic, biogeochemical, and ecological water
management roles as well as enhancing habitat for a variety of species. Forest wetlands are
also excellent carbon sinks and perform natural services such as carbon sequestration, nitrogen
and phosphorus remediation, and reduce sedimentation. Since European settlement, Ohio has
lost 90% of its wetlands. This presentation will highlight a project where Ohio State University
Extension partnering with Ohio Department of Natural Resources - Division of Forestry located,
collected water quality and vegetation data on all forested wetlands within Zaleski State Forest.
The data collected by OSU Extension staff was provided to ODNR- Division of Forestry (DOF) for
addition to the Ohio Statewide Forest Resource Assessment. Recommendations were developed
by OSUE to manage, protect, and expand these forested wetlands as appropriate. These
Page | 20
recommendations have been provided to DOF for inclusion in the Division's State Forest
Strategic Plan. Additionally, areas on state forests where forest wetlands can and should be
developed have been identified by OSUE for inclusion in long-range plans. OSUE has worked
with DOF to develop plans for forested wetland demonstration sites. Another critical role of the
project was training for DOF service foresters by Ohio State University Extension to initiate the
identification of existing and potential wetlands and incorporate BMPs into Stewardship Plans
developed by DOF service foresters. These BMPs were developed to not only protect wetlands
and streams but also to enhance associated forest uplands (skid trails, log landings, etc.), critical
for the protection and enhancement of water quality "downstream."
~-~
Title: The Nature Conservancy's Stream and Wetland Mitigation Program: Reducing permitting
time and increasing success - Author: Devin Schenk, The Nature Conservancy
Biography: Devin Schenk is the Mitigation Program Manager for The Nature Conservancy (TNC),
where he is responsible for setting up and running TNC’s state-wide Stream and Wetland InLieu Fee Mitigation Program. Devin has worked in the field of stream and wetland mitigation
for over 14 years in California, Kentucky, and Ohio. Devin received his B.S. from the University
of Cincinnati, M.En. from Miami University of Ohio, and J.D. from Northern Kentucky
University’s Salmon P. Chase College of Law.
Abstract: The Clean Water Act operates on a principle of “no net loss” to our nation’s streams
and wetlands. This requires that any impacts to jurisdictional waters must be offset by
compensatory mitigation. The overall goal of The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) In-Lieu-Fee
mitigation program (ILF) is to provide an effective form of compensatory mitigation to those
applicants seeking permits from the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and the Ohio
Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA).
Federal law has established a hierarchical preference for mitigation, first through mitigation
banks, then in-lieu fee credits, and lastly permittee responsible mitigation.
Prior to this, those seeking permits for impacts to aquatic resources outside of mitigation bank
service areas were required to perform their own compensatory mitigation, and monitor and
maintain it for several years. This program allows for a fee to be paid “in lieu of” permittee
performed mitigation.
Through the ILF program public and private developers are able to realize economic advantages
over implementing their own mitigation projects, including reduced permitting time and costs,
and the transfer of all mitigation obligations to TNC.
As the sponsor, TNC is responsible for the oversight, implementation, and fiscal management of
the program. In order to find the best opportunities for restoration projects TNC plans to partner
with state agencies, non-profit organizations, and for-profit organizations. Once projects are
Page | 21
identified and approved by the regulatory agencies, they will be designed and implemented with
the help of project partners.
This presentation will provide details regarding TNC’s ILF program and discuss ways in which the
water resource community can be involved.
~-~
Title: Environmental causes of methane fluxes from an urban wetland - Authors: Timothy
Morin, Dr. Gil Bohrer, & Liel Naor-Azrieli, The Ohio State University
Biography: Tim is a PhD student at the Ohio State University where he focuses on terrestrial
and atmospheric greenhouse gas fluxes. Today he'll be talking about methane fluxes from a
constructed wetland park located in Columbus Ohio. Before graduate school, Tim lived in a
marshland village in Guyana, South America where he got his interest in wetlands.
Abstract: Wetlands are the largest source of methane (CH4) worldwide but offer a wide variety
of ecosystem services and are commonly constructed in the United States to mitigate wetland
loss, particularly in and near urban areas. CH4 emissions were measured at the Olentangy River
Wetland Research Park (ORWRP) over three summers and two winters using an eddy flux
covariance system. In this study we have determined what conditions drive methane fluxes from
the wetland as well as take the first steps towards creating an optimized methane emission
model for wetlands. We have found a strong linkage between photosynthetic activity and
methane and through examination of the correlation structure have determined that the
linkage is through the addition of labile carbon to the system by plants as well as transmission
through plant tissue. We also observed that water fluxes were tightly correlated with methane
emissions under different conditions, suggesting that water volatization (and possibly
evapotranspiration from plants) is tied to, though not driving, methane fluxes.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 2 – Nutrient Loading
Oak Room 8:30 am – 10:00 am
Title: The implications of environmental policy on nutrient outputs in agricultural watersheds Authors: Brent Sohngen, Sei Jin Kim, Abdoul Sam, The Ohio State University; Kevin King, USDA
Biography: Brent Sohngen is an environmental economist in the Department of Agricultural,
Environmental, and Development Economics at Ohio State University. He conducts research on
the economics of water, land use, and climate policy.
Abstract: This paper assesses the implications of agricultural conservation programs on water
quality outcomes in agricultural watersheds. Since the mid-1990s, the US government has more
than doubled subsidy payments to farmers to reduce pollution output on farms. In addition,
new regulations have been implemented on livestock operations in an attempt to reduce the
Page | 22
effect of their manure on water quality. In this paper, we test whether these new conservation
programs and livestock regulations have improved water quality. Specifically, we assess
whether the programs have reduced nutrient concentrations. To test this, we use data on daily
observations of the concentration of phosphorus over a nearly 40 years period in two
Midwestern watersheds, Maumee and Sandusky, that are predominately agricultural. We
model phosphorus concentration as a function of water flow, temperature, precipitation,
phosphorus prices, crop prices, and a series of annual and monthly fixed effects. Water flow,
temperature and precipitation control for environmental variables that influence phosphorus
outputs, while the economic variables control for phosphorus inputs by farmers. The fixed
effects capture the response of nutrient concentrations to policy. We find that the elasticity of
phosphorus outputs in watersheds with respect to phosphorus price indicates that increases in
phosphorus prices reduce phosphorus concentrations in agricultural watersheds. We show that
a 25% increase in phosphorus taxes would reduce soluble phosphorus concentrations by
around 8%. We are unable to detect a significant effect of current agricultural policies on water
quality.
~-~
Title: Water quality of Grand Lake St. Marys tributaries and potential for in-lake nutrient
processing - Author: Laura Johnson, Heidelberg University
Biography: Laura Johnson is a research scientist at the National Center for Water Quality
Research where she works on watershed export and riverine dynamics of nutrients and
sediment. Prior to joining the NCWQR, Laura was a postdoctoral research associate in Dr. Todd
Royer’s Laboratory at Indiana University in Bloomington and received her Ph.D. from the
University of Notre Dame in 2008 where she worked with Dr. Jennifer Tank.
Abstract: Grand Lake St. Marys (GLSM) has been plagued with water quality issues for many
years and more recently has experienced extreme harmful algal blooms over the summer
season. These blooms have led to beach closures and swimming advisories since 2009, when
routine testing for toxins began. The National Center for Water Quality Research at Heidelberg
University has been measuring the water quality of two major tributaries to GLSM, Chickasaw
Creek (started water year [WY] 2009) and Coldwater Creek (started WY 2013) as well as the
primary outflow, Beaver Creek (started WY 2014). In WY 2013, annual loads of total phosphorus
(TP), dissolved reactive P (DRP), and nitrate were similar between Chickasaw (11.0, 3.5, and 234
metric tons of TP, DRP, and nitrate) and Coldwater creeks (7.2, 2.7, and 118 metric tons of TP,
DRP, and nitrate). Yet, compared to other agricultural rivers in Ohio, both Chickasaw and
Coldwater Creek had ~20% higher TP, ~50% higher DRP, and ~80% higher nitrate yields (kg/ha).
Concentrations of TP, DRP, and nitrate increased with increasing discharge in these two
watersheds, indicating a primarily non-point source of nutrients. Thus far in WY 2014, median
concentrations of DRP and nitrate have been significantly lower in the outflow, Beaver Creek
(0.005 mg/L DRP, 0.72 mg/L nitrate) compared to the inflows (0.17 mg/L DRP, 8.5 mg/L nitrate;
Kruskal Wallis P<0.001). Although median TP concentrations were similar across all 3 tributaries
(0.17-0.26 mg/L), the median DRP:TP ratio dropped greatly from inflows (0.70) to outflow (0.03)
Page | 23
indicating heavy processing of nutrients in GLSM associated with algal growth. Our results imply
that substantial reductions in external loads to GLSM are needed to improve lake health.
~-~
Title: Using Cover Crops and No-Till to Economically Reduce Phosphorus Runoff - Author: James
Hoorman, The Ohio State University
Biography: Jim Hoorman is an Assistant Professor and Extension Educator with Ohio State
University (OSU) Extension specializing in Cover Crops, Soil Health, and Water Quality in
Putnam County (Ottawa) Ohio. Jim has a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture (1984), a Masters of
Arts degree in Business (1987) and a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics (1987)
from OSU. He is working on a PHD in Environmental Sciences at OSU. His research is on using
cover crops to increase soil organic matter, tie up soil nutrients (N-P), and decrease soil erosion.
Abstract: Ohio State University conducted P speciation studies on Hoytville soils to analyze soil
P chemical tie up. Phosphorus speciation fractionizes the P into soluble reactive P (SRP),
exchangeable organic P (ExP), and inorganic P (calcium P (CaP), iron oxide P (FeP), and
aluminum oxide P (AlP)), SRP levels varied by management and was significantly lower (P<.05)
on conventional crop rotations (average =0.69a) than permanent vegetated grass or forested
areas (average=3.90b) and SRP stratification followed a similar pattern (crop rotations =0.30a vs
permanent vegetation=1.37b). Conventional tilled fields (0.69a) had significantly lower SRP
(P<.05) than no-till fields (0.93b) and varied by manure type (dairy =0.56a and poultry =1.37b).
Significant differences (P<.05) were found in the inorganic plant unavailable P (CaP, FeP, AlP)
related to management. FeP is unstable under saturated soil conditions, releasing SRP when
Fe3+ (ferric state) is reduced to Fe2+ (ferrous state). The high iron content (20-30%) of Lake Erie
soils results in SRP being released when soils become saturated. Improving draining and soil
structure could reduce the amount of SRP runoff by keeping the FeP in the ferric state.
Researchers are experimenting with cover crops and no-till to economically improve soil
structure and increase drainage. Preliminary results show that SRP was significantly less (P<.05)
with a red clover cover crop (0.34a) than fields with no cover (1.42b). Cover crops had
significantly (P<.05) more organic ExP (1.23b) or 8.8X more ExP than no covers (0.14a). ExP
(organic) and SRP (inorganic) are plant available forms of P but the ExP is a larger more stable
molecular form of P. Cover crops cost $20-25 per acre to plant, build soil organic matter, and tie
up P in an organic form that could result in less P runoff.
Page | 24
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 3 – Public Water Supply
Alder Room 8:30 am – 10:00 am
Title: Integrating the City of Columbus Upground Reservoirs into the Scioto River Water
Resource System: Part 1 - Removal of Low Head Dam and installation of Pneumatic Weir Gate
System - Authors: Matt Steele, City of Columbus; Anil Tangirala, ms consultants
Biographies: Mr. Steele has worked for the City of Columbus for the past 20 years. He is the
Water Supply and Treatment Coordinator responsible for Columbus’ three water plants, Water
Quality Assurance Lab, and Watershed section. He also oversees Columbus’ wellfield, four
reservoirs and dams. He has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Microbiology from The Ohio
State University and holds a Class III water operator’s license. Matt is also the current chair of
the OAWWA Technology Committee.
Mr. Tangirala is a Senior Water Resources Engineer at ms consultants’ Inc. Mr. Tangirala is a
Professional Engineer with more than 12 years of experience in Water Resources Engineering
emphasizing on Stormwater Management, Green Infrastructure Planning and Design.
Hydrologic, Hydraulic and Water Quality modeling. Mr. Tangirala is currently the Chair of the
Ohio Water Environment Association Watershed Management Committee and a regional
liaison to Water Environment Federation’s Stormwater and Watershed Management
committees.
Abstract: The Prospect Dam, located on the Scioto River at the Marion County/Delaware County
line south of the Village of Prospect, was constructed in 1920’s era and served to impound river
water for use in boilers and condensers at the Scioto Power Station. There was no other known
current beneficial use other than limited recreational activities created by the impoundment
pool including the use of personal watercraft and fishing including an annual fishing derby held
in the impoundment pool.
The presentation will:
 Summarize the reasons for the removal of the Low Head Dam and the ecological,
recreational and safety benefits obtained from the removal of the dam.
 Discuss the Design and Construction of the Pneumatic weir gate system which spans 150
feet in the Scioto River. When raised during periods of elevated stream flow, this weir
creates a 6-foot deep temporary impoundment pool and directs river flows to the
adjacent pump station. When the diversion pump station is not in use, the weir can be
completely lowered, allowing the river to flow as normal and permit fish migration.
 Discuss the proposed stream mitigation plan involving the removal of the lowhead dam
and bank stabilization techniques. The low head dam at Prospect created a backwater
pool that extended back approximately 7 miles to the Village of Green Camp. Except
during periods when the inflatable weir is in operation, the removal of the Prospect Dam
allows free flow in the river and free passage into the Scioto River for nine additional
miles.
Page | 25

Discuss proactive floodplain management and how the detailed hydraulic analysis of
Scioto River for the Low Head Dam Removal is being submitted as a Letter of Map
Revision to FEMA to change the Special Flood Hazard Area designation from Zone A to
Zone AE.
~-~
Title: Integrating the City of Columbus Upground Reservoirs into the Scioto River Water
Resource System: Part 2- Multi-Faceted Stakeholder Interactions - Authors: Troy Branson, City of
Columbus; Ken Ricker, ms consultants
Biography: Troy Branson has over 27 years of experience in the engineering field including 16
years with the City of Columbus. Troy has worked on a number of projects as a project engineer
within the Division of Sewerage and Drainage at the City’s wastewater treatment plants and
wastewater facilities. Troy has also worked within the Division of Water and was the project
engineer on the recently constructed Upground Reservoir, Raw Water Pump Station, and Raw
Water Pipeline. Troy received a BS in Civil Engineering from the Ohio State University.
Mr. Ricker has over 31 years of experience- 24 years at ms consultants- assisting clients in a the
planning, design, financing and construction of a variety of projects, including public water
supply, treatment, and distribution, wastewater collection & treatment, solid and hazardous
waste management. He received a BS in Civil Engineering from the Ohio State University. Prior
to joining ms, he had seven years of public service performing engineering reviews of studies
and construction documents and providing technical assistance to governmental agencies
financing their wastewater projects through the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency,
Division of Environmental & Financial Assistance. Mr. Ricker has been a member of the
American Water Works Association since 1991.
Abstract: The City of Columbus, committed to environmental stewardship, performed a
comprehensive assessment of potential impacts of their Upground Reservoirs project on cultural
resources, terrestrial habitats/endangered species, wetlands, aquatic habitats and
groundwater.
The presentation will the focus on how Columbus not only strived to maintain water resources
within the overall project area using mitigation techniques during construction, but also
collaborated with regulators and partnered with local communities and stakeholders to
integrate various infrastructure components which will serve as enhancements well into the
future.
The following construction mitigation elements and design features will be discussed.
 Preconstruction well assessments, real time monitoring of construction dewatering, and
assistance for potable/agricultural wells impacted by construction.
 Collaboration with Soil/Water Districts to intercept/reroute agricultural surface runoff
and field tile drainage around the reservoir perimeter using a pair of two-stage ditches
Page | 26
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
designed to perform as water quality vegetative filters and that qualified as a postconstruction stormwater BMP.
Partnership on constructing a 47-acre passive recreation park, including conversion of
two reservoir soil borrow areas into water features, and ground cover to prairie grass
which will act as a vegetative filter with zero net discharge in post development storm
water runoff.
Installing a pneumatic weir gate system spanning the Scioto River in lieu of a permanent
low head intake impoundment, thus allowing unobstructed river flow and fish migration
when not in service.
Restored free flow conditions to a 9-mile stretch of the Scioto River by removing a 1920's
era low head dam at the Marion/Delaware County line;
Maintained/enhanced personal watercraft recreation along the Scioto corridor by
constructing a canoe portage trail and canoe launch ramp with parking lot as part of the
pump station project; and
Improved public safety in two rural townships with the installation of non-potable fire
hydrants along the 4-1/2 mile raw water pipeline.
~-~
Title: Cost of treating cyanobacteria in drinking water - Author: Dr. Dean Reynolds, City of
Alliance
Biography: Dr. Dean A. Reynolds is an Ohio Certified Water Supply Class IV Operator and the
Superintendent of Alliance Department of Water Treatment.
Abstract: Cyanobacteria blooms significantly increase the cost of treating water for potable use.
Costs to water treatment plants can be categorized as direct costs for treatment processes in
the plant and for maintaining source water watersheds. Indirect costs of cyanobacteria blooms
are caused by the influence of aesthetically unpalatable water and the fear of cyanotoxins on
consumer attitude toward water utilities and municipal governments. Several other algal groups
are known to cause additional treatment costs when they bloom due to taste and odor and
water filter clogging. This presentation will concern only the cyanobacteria. Direct cost increases
to water treatment caused by cyanobacteria are as follows 1) cost of additional treatment
chemicals to remove taste and odor compounds or remove and/or destroy cyanotoxins, 2) cost
of equipment maintenance and cost of additional equipment for treatment, 3) cost to handle
and remove increased water treatment residuals such as alum sludge, and 4) cost of personnel
training and equipment to monitor and test untreated and treated water. Direct costs
associated with managing cyanobacteria blooms in the source water watershed include 1)
manpower and training to monitor the watershed, 2) sample collection and testing by utility or
private laboratories, 3) chemical treatment to reduce bloom development in water source, 4)
bloom avoidance procedures using equipment in the source water such as aeration equipment.
Indirect costs are not so easy to quantify but can have significant effects on water use and can
affect the attitude of the public to the utility.
Page | 27
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 1 – Water Use & Availability
German Village Room 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Title: Healthy Water Ohio – A Strategy for Water Resource Management - Author: Dr. Larry
Antosch, Ohio Farm Bureau Federation
Biography: Dr. Larry Antosch has been employed at the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF)
since July 1999. He is responsible for overseeing, planning, developing and implementing
programs and projects addressing policy development and emerging environmental and energy
policy issues. In his position, Dr. Antosch provides leadership to the OFBF policy development
process and serves as the conduit of unbiased environmental information for the OFBF Board of
Trustees, Cabinet and county FB members. He is responsible for reviewing and analyzing
environmental data, reports, and proposed rules and legislation to determine its impact on
Ohio agriculture and producers. In addition, Larry represents OFBF and county FB members on
local, state, national and inter-national task forces, committees and work groups. He currently
is providing technical oversight to the Healthy Water Ohio initiative.
Abstract: The Healthy Water Ohio initiative is a collaborative partnership with stakeholders
from agriculture, conservation, business, university and water user groups. This effort will lead
to the development of a 20 to 30 year water resource management plan for the stewardship
and use of Ohio’s surface and ground water resources.
The ability of Ohio’s water resources to support society’s current and future water needs is
critical to sustaining Ohio’s economy and standard of living. The development of a sustainable
water resources management plan (Healthy Water Ohio) will serve as the foundation for
understanding Ohio’s water resource needs and position the state to meet future water needs.
The strategy will consider water quantity, water quality and ecosystem needs for the next 20 to
30 years.
Sixteen leaders from Ohio’s agriculture, conservation, business, university and water user
groups comprise a steering committee that is spearheading the effort that also involves
stakeholders from all aspects of Ohio water resources. By June 2015, the group aspires to have a
document that will create the future vision for the sustainable use of Ohio’s water resources to
support current and future water needs while sustaining Ohio’s economy and standard of living.
This initiative provides an opportunity for Ohio water users to investigate and evaluate Ohio’s
water resource challenges, identify innovative solutions and develop a strategy to overcome
obstacles faced along the way.
~-~
Page | 28
Title: Water Withdrawals in Ohio: Recent Trends - Authors: Mitch Valerio & Mike Hallfrisch,
Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Biography: Mitch is an environmental scientist at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Soil and Water Resources. He works in the Water Withdrawal Facilities Registration
Program and tracks water usage throughout the state.
Abstract: The Ohio Revised Code (Section 1521.16) requires the owner of a facility with the
capacity to withdraw water at a quantity greater than 100,000 gallons per day to register that
facility with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water Resources
(DSWR). Registrants are also required to report how much water was withdrawn at their
facilities annually. Registered facilities are grouped by DSWR into various categories based on
dominant water use type (e.g. hydraulic fracturing, power production, public water supply, etc.).
The number of new registrations submitted each year has increased dramatically from 2012
through the second quarter of 2014, primarily due to increasing hydraulic fracturing activity
within the state. Prior to 2012, the number of new registrations accepted each year averaged
approximately 29. During 2013, the number increased to 150. The total number of registered
facilities that were oil or gas related increased from 0 in October 2010 to 66 in July 2012, to 344
in May 2014. As expected, the amount of water withdrawn by facilities associated with
hydraulic fracturing has increased steadily in proportion to the number of registered facilities.
However, hydraulic fracturing, when compared to the other water use categories, accounted for
only 0.02% of total statewide withdrawal amounts in 2012, and is expected to remain low in
2013 after all of that year’s data are collected and analyzed. Geographically, newly-registered
facilities since 2010 have tended to cluster around hydraulic fracturing activity in eastern Ohio,
as well as the Ohio River. In the future, the number of new facility applicants is expected to
remain high due to continued oil and gas activity in eastern Ohio.
~-~
Title: Water Resources Determining Ohio's Future: Water Efficiency Manual for Industrial,
Commercial, and Institutional Facilities - Author: Serena Alexander, Cleveland State University
Biography: Serena E. Alexander is a PhD candidate at Cleveland State University and a research
assistant at The Center for Economic Development. Her research interests include economic
development and environmental planning and policy issues with a particular focus on climate
action planning, hazard mitigation, and adaptive management and governance.
Abstract: The project focuses on water intensive industries in the state of Ohio and water
efficiency best management practices for industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. It
was prepared for Ohio Lake Erie Commission and Ohio Department of Natural Resources
(ODNR). Water intensive industries were first identified by analyzing permitting data on water
withdrawal from ODNR. Then, general and industry specific best management practices were
selected through a review of the literature and practices at other states. The report can serve as
a guideline for industries and facilities willing to undertake water efficiency practices voluntarily.
Page | 29
It highlights the general steps these facilities or organizations can take to benefit from the
state’s water resources efficiently and sustainably. In addition to general guidelines, the report
presents industry specific techniques, technologies and best management practices for water
efficiency. The final outcome will be offered to entities applying for a water withdrawal permit
in the state of Ohio. These entities will be encouraged to voluntary adhere to some of the
techniques and best management practices presented in the report. Ultimately, the report
concludes with recommendations for the state’s next steps.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 2 – Nutrient Management
Oak Room 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Title: Goose Management - Authors: Lorraine Krzyzewski & Elayna Stieroff, City of Columbus
Biography: Lorraine Krzyzewski is a watershed protection coordinator for the City of Columbus,
Department of Public Utilities, Division of Water, Watershed Management Section.
Elayna Stierhoff is a Water Protection Coordinator with the City of Columbus, Department of
Public Utilities, Division of Water, Watershed Management Section.
Abstract: This presentation will provide a successful, multi-facetted approach to Canada Goose
Management in public use areas of the utilities’ raw water supply reservoirs. The talk will also
present how public education and the application of permitted wildlife control measures can be
used together to solve this difficult problem.
~-~
Title: The potential for pollutant runoff from surface irrigation of reclaimed wastewater in cold
weather - Authors: Joshua Griffin, Dr. Karen Mancl, & Dr. Olli Tuovinen, The Ohio State
University
Biography: Josh Griffin is a Masters student in Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering
studying under Dr. Karen Mancl.
Abstract: The depth of aerated soils is often a limiting condition in Ohio for soil based on-site
wastewater treatment systems. One option for reclaiming wastewater on-site is pretreatment
of the wastewater and surface application of the effluent making use of shallow aerated soils.
Cold weather is seen as a limiting factor to surface irrigation due to excess moisture and soil
freezing. The objective of the experiment was to determine the impact of reclaimed wastewater
irrigation in winter conditions on the quality of runoff. A controlled experiment was devised
where simulated wastewater was applied to field scale plots setup to capture all surface runoff
generated. The experimental system was tested over two winters (2012-13 and 2013-14) at the
North Appalachian Experimental Watershed in Coshocton, Ohio. The two winters represented
mild to severe cold weather conditions relative to the typical Ohio winter. In some circumstances
Page | 30
the irrigated plots influenced the hydrology by supplementing the snowpack. During melting
events elevated pollutant concentrations were observed. However if melt events were coupled
with precipitation events or runoff occurred that was only induced by precipitation, other factors
seemed to dominate runoff quality and the impacts of wastewater reclamation were
insignificant.
~-~
Title: Sustainable Water Quality Management and Public Health Protection by Urban Wetlands
- Authors: Tsung-Ta (David) Hsu & Dr. Jiyoung Lee, The Ohio State University
Biography: David Hsu is a PhD Candidate at the Environmental Science Graduate Program at
the Ohio State University. He has a master's degree in microbiology and is interested in
studying microbes in the environments. He is currently working with Dr. Jiyoung Lee as a
graduate research associate at the College of Public Health at OSU where he investigates
pathogen dynamics in urban wetlands and its public health implications.
Abstract: The Olentangy River in central Ohio has been listed on the Ohio Clean Water Act
section 303 (d) because of its deteriorated water quality. Construction of the Olentangy River
Wetlands has improved water quality by reducing nutrients and E. coli levels across the
wetlands. However, more specific information on its public health impact (i.e. human enteric
pathogens) remains unknown. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Campylobacter are major
foodborne and waterborne pathogens. In addition, Arcobacter is an emerging enteric pathogen.
The objectives of this current study are 1) to investigate changing levels of pathogens (Shiga
toxin-producing E. coli, Campylobacter, Arcobacter) in the two constructed wetlands in the
Olentangy River Wetland Research Park (ORWRP); 2) to compare the efficiency of pathogen
reductions between the two types of wetlands (planted vs. originally unplanted) in the ORWRP;
and 3) to determine relationships between environmental variables and pathogen reductions.
The study period is from July, 2013 to June, 2014. Preliminary results showed that E. coli and
Arcobacter were prevalent in the wetlands (98.8% and 97.6%, respectively), whereas Shiga
toxin-producing E. coli and Campylobacter had lower occurrence (22.0% and 7.3%, respectively).
Both E. coli and Arcobacter reductions across the wetlands were observed in sixty percent of
sampling events. However, no significant differences were found in terms of reductions between
the two wetland types. Reduction efficiency of E. coli and Arcobacter was associated with
turbidity, indicating the pathogen reduction mechanism by the wetlands could be attributed to
settling out of sediments. Establishment of the Olentangy River Wetlands in Columbus urban
area demonstrates its sustainable way of water quality management as well as public health
protection by pathogen reductions.
Page | 31
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 3 – Groundwater
Alder Room 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Title: Groundwater Resources: An Innovative Succession Plan - Author: Jess White, City of
Dayton
Biography: Jess White is currently a laboratory sampling tech for the City of Dayton Division of
Water Supply and Treatment. She will be graduating with a B.S in Environmental Health
Sciences at Wright State University in the summer of 2015.
Abstract: Integrating technology into the current water system profile is crucial in order to be
sustainable in the future. The City of Dayton, with the help of OTCO began utilizing GIS to map
the monitoring wells, production wells, and sample stations located throughout the water
system. Until this point, the knowledge of those assets was kept in an archaic manner, through
word of mouth and out of date maps and descriptions. These mapped locations are now
accessible from our desktop computers, and will eventually be uploaded to hand held devices
that can be used in the field. The idea to map these sites with GIS led to a final plan that
develops a pathway to link within SCADA and LIMS. With these programs linked to each
location, we will be able to monitor and trend our ground water resources before and after
production. Furthermore, we will also be able to read various parameters at specific locations,
as well as, detect changes in water quality throughout our groundwater system. The operators
will also have the advantage to adjust their treatment procedures according to the chemical
makeup of the well water coming into the plant at any given time. These additions will help to
ensure the success and security of our groundwater resources.
~-~
Title: Hydrologeological Investigation of the Timken Faircrest Steel Plant Construction
Dewatering Project Stark County, Canton and Perry Townships, Ohio - Authors: Curtis Coe & Jim
Raab, Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Biography: Curtis joined the ODNR Division of Soil and Water Resources as a Hydrogeologist in
2010. He is currently conducting Ground Water Supply Conflict Investigations for High Yielding
Irrigation wells. He is involved with Ground Water Potentiometric Surface Mapping, GIS
Investigations for ground water supply exploration and development. He is providing Technical
Support to the public, government, consultants, and Industry.
Abstract: Timken Corporation (Timken) began upgrading and remodeling of the Timken
Faircrest Steel Plant (TFSP) located southwest of Canton, during the summer of 2012. Part of the
remodeling involved the installation of a vertical steel pipe caster that would be installed 89 feet
below the land surface. Timken had done a geotechnical investigation of the subsurface for the
vertical caster foundation engineering design. However, Timken did not include a
Page | 32
hydrogeological impact assessment to determine how the construction dewatering would affect
the ground water levels in local domestic water supply wells in the surrounding area.
During the excavation of the foundation, the contractor encountered ground water. Timken
installed six (6) dewatering wells around the excavation. Shortly after the dewatering operation
started in August 2012, local residents complained to the Stark County Health Department
(SCHD) that they were having problems with their wells. In response to the request by the SCHD
for assistance, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources – Division of Soil and Water Resources
(ODNR-DSWR), met with Timken to assess the site hydrogeological characteristics near the
dewatering operations. The ODNR-DSWR designed and implemented a long-term monitoring
program to determine the extent of the cone of depression created by Timken dewatering
operations.
The ground water impact assessment was accomplished during August and September of 2012.
It was concluded that the cone of depression had migrated beyond Timken’s property boundary.
The main area affected was to the south and east of the TFSP. The September 2012 monitoring
data was used to define the approximate geographic extent of the impacted area. Timken used
the inferred impact area to sort through the complaint list compiled by the SCHD. In total,
Timken responded to 77 complaints from local homeowners.
Long-term monitoring data confirmed that ground water levels in the area were impacted by
the Timken dewatering operation, but as of September 2013 the ground water levels in the area
had returned to normal. At this time, it has been concluded that Timken has taken the
precautionary steps necessary to protect the public health and safety. There does not appear to
be any long-term impacts to the ground water supplies available from either the glacial or
bedrock aquifer systems in the area.
~-~
Title: Chloride and Nitrate Trends in Ohio’s Public Water System Wells - Author: Michael
Slattery, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
Biography: Mike Slattery has a BS in Earth Science (Southern Illinois University) and an MS in
Geological Science, with a focus on isotope hydrology (UNLV). His current work includes data
management and analysis for the Ambient Ground Water Monitoring Network for the Ohio
EPA.
Abstract: The assessment of trends in ground water quality is an important step in
understanding the factors that affect water quality over time. Trends in ground water quality
are driven by natural geochemical evolution, climate, land use activities, ground water
extraction, groundwater-surface water interaction, and inter-aquifer leakage. Smaller, more
shallow aquifers may react quickly to changing conditions (days to years) under high recharge
conditions, while larger, deeper aquifers with much greater storage may respond many times
more slowly (decades to millennia). Here, changes over the last four decades in concentrations
Page | 33
of two key water quality parameters, chloride and nitrate, are evaluated in the raw water of
public supply wells using data from Ohio EPAs Ambient Ground Water Monitoring Network
(AGWMP). This dataset comprises a rich, long-term archive of Public Water System (PWS)
source water data with adequate spatial and depth coverage across the main aquifer types
encountered in Ohio.
Estimates of trend are evaluated using standard regression measures to estimate the intra-well
monotonic trends of chloride and nitrate (tendency of concentration to increase or decrease
over time). While numerical estimates of slope and significance help to document variation over
time, they do not imply cause and effect relationships to land use activity or contamination
source, nor are they predictive in that regard. To help interpret the physical significance of the
trend results, the slopes are evaluated by well depth, aquifer type, and land use category to
determine if any spatial patterns emerge as significant, although such patterns are often
difficult to discern in well networks. Based on the rather deep settings of PWS wells in general,
slower water quality changes over time might be expected in these wells compared to networks
of shallower wells.
~-~
Title: Groundwater Availability in the Appalachian Plateaus - Author: Kurt McCoy, U.S.
Geological Survey
Biography: Kurt McCoy has been employed as a hydrologist with the USGS West Virginia, New
Mexico, and Virginia Water Science Center offices for the last 12 years.
Abstract: The U.S. Geological Survey’s Groundwater Resources Program is conducting an
assessment of groundwater availability throughout the United States to gain a better
understanding of the status of the Nation’s groundwater resources and how changes in land
use, water use, and climate may affect those resources.
The Appalachian Plateaus groundwater availability study has recently been initiated to quantify
current groundwater resources in Permian-, Pennsylvanian-, and Mississippian-age aquifers
from Alabama to New York. The study will evaluate how regional groundwater budgets have
changed over time, and provide the foundational groundwater-related datasets to support
other Federal and State water-resource investigations. The intent of the study is to improve
datasets for adaptive management of drinking-water resources, aquatic ecosystems, and
continued energy resource development in the region. A better understanding of groundwater
availability in the Appalachian Plateaus thus plays a central role in sustained economic
development of the region.
Page | 34
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 1 – Climate Change
German Village Room 1:45 pm – 3:15 pm
Title: Modeling Potential Impacts of Climate Change on Runoff in the Upper Scioto River Basin Part 1 - Author: Greg Koltun, U. S. Geological Survey
Biography: Greg is a hydrologist with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Ohio Water Science
Center, where is the discipline specialist for surface-water hydrology, hydraulics, and sediment
transport. Since joining the USGS in 1980, Greg has served as principal investigator or coinvestigator on a wide variety of projects dealing with topics in hydrology; hydraulics, computer
applications and modeling, and water quality. Greg obtained a B.S. in Microbiology and a M.S.
in Civil Engineering from the Ohio State University.
Abstract: The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Ohio Water Development
Authority, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, and the Cities of Columbus and
Delaware, Ohio, did a study to provide information on the hydrologic effects of potential
changes in 21st-century climate, water use, and land cover in the upper Scioto River Basin, Ohio.
A precipitation-runoff model, calibrated based on historical climate and streamflow data, was
used to simulate the effects of climate change (as informed by selected global-climate-change
models) on streamflows and reservoir water levels at several locations in the watershed. Level 1
simulations were done accounting only for changes in climate and anticipated operations of
three City of Columbus upground reservoirs located in northwest Delaware County, Ohio. Results
from the level 1 simulations were analyzed to evaluate climate-driven temporal changes in
annual, seasonal, and monthly streamflow and reservoir water-level characteristics as well as in
maximum and minimum 7-, 30-, and 180-day average streamflow and reservoir water-levels.
Level 2 simulations also were done incorporating build-out (population and development-driven
changes in land cover and water use) in addition to the level 1 changes in climate and
upground-reservoir operations. Results from the level 2 simulations were analyzed to evaluate
and contrast (relative to level 1 results) the effects of these added factors on the N-day average
streamflows and reservoir water levels.
~-~
Title: Sustaining Scioto: Investing Today Preserving Tomorrow: Modeling Potential Impacts of
Climate Change on Runoff in the Upper Scioto River Basin - Part 2- Author: Greg Koltun, U. S.
Geological Survey
Biography: Greg is a hydrologist with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Ohio Water Science
Center, where is the discipline specialist for surface-water hydrology, hydraulics, and sediment
transport. Since joining the USGS in 1980, Greg has served as principal investigator or coinvestigator on a wide variety of projects dealing with topics in hydrology; hydraulics, computer
applications and modeling, and water quality. Greg obtained a B.S. in Microbiology and a M.S.
in Civil Engineering from the Ohio State University.
Page | 35
Abstract: The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Ohio Water Development
Authority, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, and the Cities of Columbus and
Delaware, Ohio, did a study to provide information on the hydrologic effects of potential
changes in 21st-century climate, water use, and land cover in the upper Scioto River Basin, Ohio.
A precipitation-runoff model, calibrated based on historical climate and streamflow data, was
used to simulate the effects of climate change (as informed by selected global-climate-change
models) on streamflows and reservoir water levels at several locations in the watershed. Level 1
simulations were done accounting only for changes in climate and anticipated operations of
three City of Columbus upground reservoirs located in northwest Delaware County, Ohio. Results
from the level 1 simulations were analyzed to evaluate climate-driven temporal changes in
annual, seasonal, and monthly streamflow and reservoir water-level characteristics as well as in
maximum and minimum 7-, 30-, and 180-day average streamflow and reservoir water-levels.
Level 2 simulations also were done incorporating build-out (population and development-driven
changes in land cover and water use) in addition to the level 1 changes in climate and
upground-reservoir operations. Results from the level 2 simulations were analyzed to evaluate
and contrast (relative to level 1 results) the effects of these added factors on the N-day average
streamflows and reservoir water levels.
~-~
Title: Adaptive Management Planning for Climate Change: Addressing Potential Impacts on
Infrastructure Planning and Design - Authors: Kristin Knight & Lisa Jeffrey, Brown and Caldwell
Biography: Mrs. Knight is a Principal Engineer with Brown and Caldwell and has 17 years of
experience in water resource design and management including water treatment, distribution
and stormwater management.
Abstract: This presentation will provide an overview of the adaptive management planning
associated with a multi-year, regional study being conducted in Central Ohio. The study was
designed to facilitate planning and development of adaptive management strategies for
mitigating risk associated with climate change. The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission
(MORPC), together with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the City of Columbus, Del-Co Water
Company, Inc., and the Ohio Water Development Authority has initiated this planning study
called “Sustaining Scioto”.
This proactive, science-based study is being conducted to ensure that Central Ohio has clean and
secure water resources for current residents and businesses, and to sustain needs from future
growth. It includes development of adaptive management strategies to manage water quality
and quantity during extreme drought or flood. Brown and Caldwell is currently working with the
planning commission to develop this adaptive management plan using the results of the model
and input from a broadly based Stakeholder Advisory Committee. The considerations and
lessons learned from this study are relevant to water resource planners in Virginia and
throughout the East Coast.
Page | 36
On a national level, there is significant concern regarding the potential impacts to water
resources due to climate change and associated extreme weather events (USEPA, 2012;
Wilbanks and Fernandez, 2012; NACWA, 2009; Brekke, et al., 2009). The impact of climate
change on water resources has been noted in several national studies as one of the critical
issues for public utility planning, especially as related to water supply systems (NACWA, 2009;
USEPA, 2012). This problem is exacerbated in Central Ohio where 85% of daily water usage is
supplied by surface water (Markstrom, et al., 2012).
This presentation will focus on the development of water management strategies to mitigate
quantity impacts and treatment strategies to mitigate water quality impacts of climate change
in Central Ohio and the eastern portion of the mid-west. This project’s approach and
considerations have broad applications throughout the region and the country. The
presentation will present a suite of adaptation strategies to address both the water
management challenges associated with changing flow patterns and the water treatment
challenges associated with changing source water quality due to climate change. The project
builds on the associated presentations being submitted by MORPC, most specifically the
modeling work being conducted by the USGS. The USGS has developed a hydraulic/hydrologic
(H/H) model to assess quantitative impacts, in conjunction with this adaptive management
planning.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 2 – Watershed Management
Oak Room 1:45 pm – 3:15 pm
Title: What do markers tell us about septic systems in agricultural watersheds? - Author: Dr.
Christopher Spiese, Ohio Northern University
Biography: Christopher Spiese is an environmental chemist at Ohio Northern University. His
area of expertise is on sulfur and phosphorus biogeochemistry in aquatic systems.
Abstract: Markers offer interesting insight into the complexities of nutrient management in
watersheds. This paper reports on the use of caffeine as a marker to track the contribution of
human wastewater and groundwater to nutrient levels observed within tile drainage effluents in
a rural, secondary tributary of Lake Erie in northwest Ohio. The study results revealed a strong,
negative correlation between caffeine and total phosphorous (Pearson’s product moment
correlation = -0.9). However, no additional correlations were observed between caffeine and
other nutrients. Caffeine was positively related to total coliform bacterial abundance as well as
E. coli abundance. Mean ± standard deviation caffeine concentrations ranged from non-detect
at the control site to 1.2 ± 0.4 μg/L in tile drainage effluents from sites having on-site
wastewater systems. Mean ± standard deviation concentrations observed for total nitrogen and
phosphorous concentrations in tile drains were 3.5 ± 1.8 mg/L and 0.4 ± 0.07 mg/L, respectively.
Bacterial abundances ranged from non-detect to 60 cfu/mL. Commonalities in nutrient
fingerprints (total and speciated phosphorous and nitrogen) in groundwater and tile drainage
Page | 37
highlight the complex relationships for nutrient and water quality management in irrigation
drainage networks.
~-~
Title: Ohio Watershed Plan Endorsement 2.0 - Author: Greg Nageotte, Ohio Department of
Natural Resource
Biography: Greg Nageotte currently serves as the Watershed Program Manager with Ohio
Department of Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water Resources. He graduated from
Oklahoma University with a Bachelor’s in Political Science, and Indiana University with Masters
of Public Affairs concentrating in Environmental Policy and Natural Resource Management. In
addition to managing the Ohio watershed coordinator grant program and watershed action
plan state endorsement process, Greg serves on several state and regional coordination and
advisory groups. He is also a past WMAO president and current treasurer.
Abstract: Ohio EPA and Ohio Department of Natural Resources jointly developed guidelines for
developing local watershed action plans (WAPs)... including policies and procedures so that the
agencies could "endorse" locally developed plans. Over 60 WAPs have been "state endorsed"
utilizing these policies. This presentation will include an overview of the outcomes of the Ohio
watershed planning initiative and provide an outline for developing new WAP planning policies
including the maintenance of "state endorsement."
~-~
Title: Discharge Quality Water From Dairy Manure: A Summary Of The McLanahan Nutrient Author: Renee Schrift, McLanaham Corporation
Biography: Renee Schrift is McLanahan Corporation’s Director of Sales & Customer Service
(Agricultural Division) and a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University with a B.S in Dairy &
Animal Science. For the past 14 years, Renee has worked with dairy producers across the
United States and Internationally to improve their manure management systems through the
adoption of technologies such as sand manure separators, fine sand recovery systems, liquid
solid separators and associated conveyance systems. Renee is currently leading the sales effort
to commercialize a new McLanahan technology to further enhance manure value by
segregating/concentrating nutrients and producing discharge quality water.
Abstract: Since the beginning of time, dairy manure has been land applied consistent with the
agronomic requirements of growing crops. Though manure is still applied under this same
construct, due to consolidation of the dairy industry over the last 40 years, animal density has
increased dramatically creating logistical, storage and environmental challenges. Manure
maintains tremendous nutrient value; however, water comprises approximately 90% of the
manure stream. Development of new and innovative methods for extracting nutrients for
Page | 38
beneficial reuse while preserving water quality is of paramount importance to the future of the
US dairy industry.
The McLanahan Nutrient Separation system seeks to improve the social and environmental
sustainability of the dairy industry, while reducing the cost and liability associated with manure
management. In general, nutrients are separated and concentrated, allowing for application
where and when they are needed. The separated water can be land irrigated, re-used or even
discharged. The system is comprised of a four steps: pretreatment under anaerobic conditions,
ultrafiltration, air stripping and reverse osmosis. A summary of the technical merits of the
process plus the economic underpinnings of this system will be presented.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Concurrent 3 – Floodplain Management (OFMA)
Alder Room 1:45 pm – 3:15 pm
Title: City of Mansfield Flood Hazard Mitigation Initiative - Authors: Miles Hebert & Shawn
Arden, EMH&T
Biographies: Miles is the Director of Water Resources at EMH&T and oversees projects ranging
from stormwater management, floodplain studies and regulatory compliance, ecosystem
restoration, NPDES compliance, and green infrastructure for water quality and CSO abatement.
Miles works with engineers, planners and environment scientists to develop comprehensive
solutions which address local, state and federal regulations for a wide variety of public
infrastructure improvement projects. Miles was the Project Manager overseeing the Touby Run
watershed and flood mitigation study for the City of Mansfield.
Shawn Arden is a senior member of the Water Resources Engineering team at EMH&T. He is a
recognized expert in the water resources field, having served in multiple capacities for the
planning and design of public and private infrastructure projects. In addition, Shawn has been a
member of the Ohio Floodplain Management Association (OFMA) Managing Board since 2007,
and he is currently serving his second term as President of the Association.
Abstract: Dating back to 1929, studies have been conducted to evaluate mitigation alternatives
for recurring flooding along Touby Run within the City of Mansfield. The City has experienced
widespread flooding associated with Touby Run on eight occasions since the summer of 2003,
each event leading to significant damage to private property as well as impacts to public streets
and utilities. Other areas of the City have also experienced recurring flooding related to
overwhelmed channels and storm sewer systems. The flooding has resulted in the abandonment
of residential and commercial properties and is contributing to a blighted condition within
neighborhoods along and near to Touby Run. In response to this history of flooding throughout
the community, the City has undertaken an initiative focused on the relocation of residents and
businesses in the high flood hazard area, through the acquisition of properties and demolition of
structures. Due to the impacts of flooding to portions of the downtown area, the City is also
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investigating the feasibility of structural improvements within the Touby Run watershed to
reduce the potential for flooding.
The City’s flood hazard mitigation program includes the development of a GIS-based database
of floodprone properties, providing information essential for the consideration of future
acquisition and demolition. The database provides information consistent with the federal Predisaster Mitigation (PDM) grant funding program, allowing the City to prioritize properties for
future grant applications and to begin allocating the funding necessary to purchase floodprone
properties, with or without grant assistance. In addition, the City is completing a watershedscale study for Touby Run to consider improvements that would reduce peak flood discharges
through regional detention basins, and improve conveyance capacity along the channel by
replacing/removing smaller roadway bridges. This study is considering the utilization of existing
open space and the purchase of properties to create large scale on-line storage areas to detain
flood flows, while also considering the utilization of these facilities as open space amenities that
would benefit the entire community.
The watershed investigation has revealed a number of opportunities that would significantly
reduce the potential for flooding along Touby Run, including nearly eliminating the potential for
flooding through the downtown area. These opportunities have been evaluated from the
standpoint of project costs and permitting liabilities, as well as the overall impacts to the
surrounding community in terms of land acquisition and open space enhancements. The
presentation will focus on the history of flooding within the City and the past and current studies
to provide mitigation. The presentation will include a discussion of past efforts to pursue hazard
mitigation grant funding and the on-going evaluation of structural flood hazard mitigation
measures and their benefit the community. The presentation will include a discussion of the
process of developing a matrix of potential solutions and the challenges associated with largescale improvements in an urbanized area.
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Title: Understanding the Homeowner’s Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014 - Author: Alicia
Silverio, Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Biography: As a Senior Environmental Specialist with ODNR’s Floodplain Management Program,
Alicia Silverio assists with the implementation and administration of the National Flood
Insurance Program throughout the State of Ohio by providing technical guidance to assist
communities maintain NFIP compliance, evaluating local floodplain management programs, and
recommending improvement measures. Additionally, she coordinates Environmental Reviews,
Community Rating System (CRS) activities, and the annual Statewide Floodplain Management
Conference for the Floodplain Management Program.
Ms. Silverio is a Certified Floodplain Manager as recognized by the Association of State
Floodplain Managers and President of the Ohio Floodplain Management Association. She is a
graduate of The Ohio State University where she acquired a Bachelor of Science Degree in
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Natural Resources (majoring in Environmental Science with emphasis in Water Quality). Ms.
Silverio has been with ODNR’s Floodplain Management Program since 1999.
Abstract: ODNR will discuss recent legislative changes to the National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP) under the Homeowner’s Flood Insurance Affordability Act (HFIAA) of 2014. The session
will explain the implications of the Act as well as its effects on flood insurance premium rates.
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